As we all have probably heard, Google launched a bunch of new things yesterday, including a new Google Maps!

It’s not quite launched yet, but the video above does a short walkthrough, and it shows the maps include a neat new display so you can compare transit trips. (PS: Google’s Vancouver transit searches runs off TransLink schedule data that we provide to them, so things are generally fairly accurate.)

I like how this might make transit even more friendly for people figuring out how to get around. And Google really seems to be interested this goal too – here’s a quote from a Skift article from yesterday:

There was also a strong presence for public transit across all Maps platforms. Product Manager for Google Maps Bernhard Seefeld said, ”We want to make public transit much much much smarter,” and you see this ambition across the Maps products, as well as the updated Google Now, which will include real-time transit information.

So now: I’m curious what you think about the new Google Maps for transit! Do you use Google Maps for transit much today—and what do you think about what you need from its future? I’d love to know your thoughts!

7 Comments

Nice. Glad Translink is providing accurate info to Google, I use the feature constantly. Showing multiple transit route options with walking distance is a great feature as well. It’s these little things that will get non transit users to at least consider it. Default for many people is just to drive somewhere, where if they would factor in driving and parking time it often takes longer by car.

What I like most about Google Maps is it factors in walking time into the trips (whereas the Trip Planner on TransLink.ca doesn’t) and it shows the arrival times of SkyTrain (which is on the TransLink website, but you have to know how to find it).

I’d like to see Translink take the next step with open data and enter into an agreement with Google, as various other agencies have done, to make the real-time data arrival data available to riders via Google Maps. Study after study has shown that transit users are more satisfied with the rider experience if they can tell when their trip is arriving. Perceived wait times are lower just by knowing. And Google Maps- with its integrated trip planning- works on all smartphones without the need to install a custom regional app. What’s not to love?

I very much appreciate Google’s new improvements. Their new map scheme seems to be transit smarter somehow. I frequently use SeaBus and 239/Park Royal to travel to Marine Drive in North Van and the new Google maps incorporate SeaBus choices into trip planning better than the old Google did. Previously Google usually only presented choices that included routes over Lions Gate. It’s also helpful to have the route choices and times presented on a graph.

I use Google maps cause it is easier to use. The ui is much better and has the ability to search for addresses of places by business name. With the addition of real time transit I will never have to use m.Translink.Ca again.

#WhatsTheLink

The #WhatsTheLink series is all about what TransLink is responsible for in Metro Vancouver and some little known facts about what we do. TransLink is responsible for transit, but our mandate also includes roads, bridges, cycling and walking paths.